SME led the development of the new merit badge, which the society says “aligns with SME’s commitment to foster understanding about the positive impact mining and minerals make on the American quality of life.”

Eagle Scout Bryan Wendell, editor of Scouting and Eagles’ Call magazines, previewed the badge on his Bryan on Scouting blog in July. There, he discussed the purpose of the badge.

“The merit badge will cover the history of mining, explore the status of mining in the 21st century, introduce Scouts to modern mining careers and explore the all-important topic of mining safety,” Wendell wrote.

On Feb. 3, Wendell offered information about the first two requirements for the badge. In order to earn the Mining in Society merit badge, scouts will have to show their knowledge about 10 minerals and how they are used, how mining impacts production and processing of agricultural products, where different minerals are mined, identify local surface and underground operations and more.